'We know what is at stake' – Arokodare eyes goals and victory in WCQ against Bafana Bafana

Wolverhampton Wanderers deadline day signing Tolu Arokodare has expressed confidence ahead of Nigeria's 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa's Bafana Bafana, insisting that both he and his teammates are fully prepared for the challenge that lies ahead.

The forward said the Super Eagles are focused on securing victory and keeping their qualification hopes alive.

Ahead of Tuesday's clash in Bloemfontein, Nigeria sit six points behind leaders South Africa, but a victory combined with a favourable Fifa ruling on Bafana Bafana's use of an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena could close the gap entirely.

"I'm not just going to speak for myself, I'm going to speak for the whole team and probably the whole nation," Arokodare told CALLY YouTube channel. 

"We are very prepared, we know what is at stake, we know what we have to do, that is to get the victory and the three points.

"We are going to come with the same energy or better than we had in the last game, and hopefully get the three points."

Arokodare has made an impact in recent outings, coming off the bench to score twice in his last two appearances for the Super Eagles. 

Despite the added expectations, he insists he remains focused on improving his game.

"I wouldn't say there is pressure, I wouldn't say there is no pressure, I have to keep what I have been doing. 

"I have to do it better and I pray for God's grace and God's strength to continue doing it. Hopefully more goals for me or more goals for the team."

On the Super Eagles approach for the encounter against Bafana Bafana, Arokodare emphasised the importance of consistency. 

"Like I said earlier, the mindset is to get the three points, to get the win and take the three points back home. 

"We have travelled a long way, we would like to count our travelling and our efforts throughout with a win, and that's what we are here for."

Arokodare concluded by reflecting on his pride in representing Nigeria.

"It feels amazing. It's a feeling that I cannot really explain or describe but it's very overwhelming. I feel blessed, I feel lucky and favoured at the same time."

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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